What might prevent someone from equalizing their body air spaces?

A cold or allergy can create inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, which are crucial pathways for equalizing pressure in your ears and sinuses during a dive. When these passages are blocked or swollen, it becomes difficult or even impossible to equalize the pressure effectively as you descend. Equalization is essential for diver comfort and safety, as failure to equalize can lead to barotrauma or discomfort. The presence of mucus, swelling, or blockage from a cold or allergy significantly impairs the body's natural ability to manage pressure changes, making it the most relevant factor in preventing successful equalization while diving.